India’s medical tourism market to reach USD 16.2 billion by 2030, may nearly double: Govt

According to 2025 figures, the top source countries for medical tourists include Bangladesh (3,25,127 arrivals), followed by Iraq (30,989), Uzbekistan (13,699), Somalia (11,506), Turkmenistan (10,231), Oman (9738), and Kenya (9,357). 

India has been emerging as a leading hub for Medical Value Travel (MVT) by integrating advanced medical infrastructure with traditional wellness systems such as AYUSH. Strong policy support, digital facilitation, and initiatives like AYUSH Visa and Regional Medical Hubs are strengthening the ecosystem. Rising global healthcare costs and demand for holistic care are driving international patients to India for affordable, high-quality treatment and preventive wellness solutions.

While India has emerged as one of the most significant destinations in this evolving global landscape, industry estimates placed the medical tourism market at about USD 8.7 billion in 2025. This amount is projected to almost double with projections of USD 16.2 billion by 2030, as shown in the recent government report. 

For centuries, India has been regarded as a sanctuary for those seeking healing, balance and recovery. Today, this ancient legacy has evolved into a dynamic Medical Value Travel ecosystem. It combines modern medical science with the timeless wisdom of traditional systems. Through the flagship “Heal in India” initiative, the Government is positioning the country as a premier destination for integrated and holistic healthcare.

According to the Medical Tourism Index 2020–21, India ranks 10th among the top 46 medical tourism destinations globally. The country is 12th among the world’s top 20 wellness tourism markets and 5th among the top 10 wellness destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.

As per Ministry of Tourism estimates, in FY24, travel and tourism contributed 5.22% to GDP, close to pre-pandemic levels. The sector also supported an estimated 8.46 crore direct and indirect jobs, accounting for about 13.3% of total employment.

For MVT, the latest data for 2025 further highlights that 507,244 foreign nationals arrived specifically for medical treatment in 2025. 

According to 2025 figures, the top source countries for medical tourists include Bangladesh (3,25,127 arrivals), followed by Iraq (30,989), Uzbekistan (13,699), Somalia (11,506), Turkmenistan (10,231), Oman (9738), and Kenya (9,357). 

India’s medical tourism appeal is significantly strengthened by its cost competitiveness. High-quality medical treatment in India is often available at substantially lower cost compared to many developed countries, while maintaining comparable clinical standards. This affordability is supported by advanced medical technology and skilled professionals. 
It enables international patients to access specialised treatment without long waiting periods, says the government report. 

India also possesses a unique advantage in wellness tourism through its centuries-old traditional systems of medicine collectively known as AYUSH — Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. To streamline access for international patients, the Government of India introduced a dedicated AYUSH Visa on July 27, 2023. It enables foreign nationals and their attendants to travel to India specifically for treatment under recognised AYUSH systems.

To maintain India’s competitive advantage, the Ministry of Tourism has formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism.

The roadmap focuses on three key areas of governance:

1. Institutional Framework: The National Medical & Wellness Tourism Promotion Board (NMWTB) serves as an umbrella organisation to coordinate between ministries, state governments, and the private sector.
2. Quality Assurance: The government is strengthening NABH accreditation for hospitals, wellness centres, and dental clinics. It is also encouraging the registration and rating of Medical Value Trave (MVT) facilitators to build international trust.
3. Skilling and Capacity Building: The Union Budget 2026-27 proposed a pilot scheme to upskill 10,000 guides in 20 iconic tourist sites through a 12-week training course. Additionally, paramedical and non-medical staff are being trained in cross-cultural sensitivities and foreign languages to better serve international patients.

By integrating these governance and quality measures, the government aims to project India as a 365-day destination for holistic healing. This integrated communication strategy, is promoted as a sub-brand of "Incredible India”.